Three suspects were fatally wounded in a fierce shootout with members of the Hawks’ Tactical Operations Management System (TOMS) in Mamelodi on Tuesday afternoon. The operation, which took place in Stoffel Park, also led to the recovery of illegal firearms, including a rifle and two pistols.
According to Hawks spokesperson Christopher Single, the confrontation occurred after police, acting on a tip-off regarding suspects in possession of illegal firearms, arrived at a house between 4:45 and 6:00 PM.
“Upon arrival, a shootout ensued where the suspects began to shoot at our members. Our members then retaliated, shooting back at the suspects,” said Single.
The suspects subsequently retreated into the house. Upon entering the premises, police discovered three men with fatal gunshot wounds. A fourth suspect managed to flee the scene and is currently the subject of a manhunt.
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and forensic teams were immediately called to the scene and remained on-site into the evening to process the active crime scene and remove the bodies.
Single confirmed that the recovered firearms will be sent for ballistic testing to determine if they were used in the commission of other crimes in the area or elsewhere. The Hawks will be proceeding with a case of possession of illegal firearms.
When asked about the prevalence of illegal weapons, Single highlighted the significant danger they pose to the community. “This issue of illegal firearms is a problem because some of these firearms are used for… gang violence. That is why whenever we receive such information, we have to respond to prevent other crimes,” he stated.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to identify the deceased and locate the escaped suspect. The public is expected to be called on for assistance once further details of the fugitive are confirmed.